LOC at Chelsea
102 Sydney Street SW3 6NJ London
Small cell lung cancer
A less common type of lung cancer, small cell lung cancer gets its name from how the cells appear under a microscope. It makes up about 12% of lung cancer cases
About small cell lung cancer
Small cell lung cancer is a fast growing form of lung cancer. It occurs when cells go wrong and become abnormal. These cells keep dividing to make more and more abnormal cells. For most patients, current treatments do not cure small cell lung cancer, but they can increase life expectancy.
At HCA UK our network of specialists are experts in the treatment of all lung cancers. If you are diagnosed with a rarer form of cancer we can arrange a referral to the most appropriate consultant for your medical condition.
Need to know
Symptoms of small cell lung cancer may include:
- a persistent cough
- coughing up mucus or blood
- shortness of breath
- loss of appetite
- chest pain
- unexplained weight loss
Having any of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have small cell lung cancer. However, it is important that you visit your GP so a referral for diagnosis can be made. While there’s no cure, early detection is important to increase effectiveness of treatment and to help manage your symptoms.
We offer a number of investigations and tests to confirm a diagnosis of small cell lung cancer. You will have an initial appointment with an expert consultant who will advise you of the most appropriate diagnostic tests. These may include:
- a physical examination
- blood tests
- scans, such as X-rays, MRI, CT and PET
If these tests suggest you may have small cell lung cancer, your consultant will recommend a biopsy. This is when a sample of tissue is taken for examination under a microscope.
Your consultant will talk you through your treatment options, which may include:
- surgery
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy
- immunotherapy
We treat every patient on an individual basis. Your treatment will depend on the type of cancer you have and how advanced it is, as well as your age and general health. At HCA UK you will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team, including expert consultants, clinical nurse specialists and supportive therapists including psychologists who can help you with your emotional wellbeing. This team will work together to create a treatment plan tailored to your medical needs. If you are diagnosed with small cell lung cancer you will have immediate access to world-class specialists and expert care.
Our Small cell lung cancer locations
LOC at The Harley Street Clinic
81-83 Harley Street W1G 8PP London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.